Operating Hours

The Mail Boat Cruise

The Mail has been delivered by boat for over 150 years in the Queen Charlotte Sounds and we are proud to uphold that service! We are the only official licensed New Zealand Post Rural Delivery Service by water in the Queen Charlotte Soundmaking this a truly unique and interesting tour!

Come along with us and share the excitement of Mail Day as the skipper delivers the New Zealand Rural post bags, groceries and freight to the residents that call the Queen Charlotte Sound waterways home – the Picton Mail Boat delivers it all!

Operating from Monday to Saturday, no one day is the same as the route changes daily covering a different area delivering the Mail. People often ask what the best day to go is, or what route we like the best, but each mail route has its own highlights.

During your cruise your skipper will provide an interesting and informative commentary on the history of the Marlborough Sounds and the people who lived there then and now. Feel free to ask him any questions and keep your camera handy for any wildlife encounters!

In the Summer months the Mail Boat Cruise takes a short stop at Historic Ship Cove. Named by Captain James Cook in January 1770 when his ship the Endeavour anchored here to replenish supplies of food, water and wood.

* Please advise us prior to booking if you have an evening travel connection *

Summer/Winter departures

1.30pm - Monday to Saturday

The arrival time back into Picton is an estimate only which varies each day and is dependent upon a number of factors including the route, how much mail there is to deliver and how many pick ups/drop offs we have along the way. During the warmer months we generally arrive back at the later estimated time, in winter it tends to be earlier. If time is limited please let us know at the time of booking so we can discuss the best option for you.

Tour Best Bits

Delivering mail to the local residents; say hi to the kids waiting for their school work